Madueke seizes Arsenal chance as Arteta’s attacking options come under scrutiny

Madueke makes his case in Arsenal win

Noni Madueke delivered a timely response after being left out of England’s latest squad, helping Arsenal beat Leeds United 2-1. Deployed on the left in the absence of the injured Christos Tzolis, the winger used his pace to unsettle James Justin and Jayden Bogle and supplied a series of dangerous deliveries.

Madueke created three chances and recorded eight touches in the penalty area, the most of any player in the match. Mikel Arteta said: “He deserved the chance and he took it.”

A strong performance, and a wider question

The display offered encouragement for Madueke, who had appeared to be slipping from view at club and international level. It also raised a question about the depth of Arteta’s attacking choices: the Guardian’s account noted that Christos Tzolis was the only addition to Arsenal’s forward line over the summer. The win showed that Madueke can provide an answer, but the club may need to rely on him again over a long season.